To block a number from texting you, the most direct method is to block the number in your phone’s messaging app or contact settings. This prevents unwanted messages from reaching your inbox without notifying the sender.
How to block a number from texting you on iPhone
Apple provides a straightforward way to block a contact directly from the Messages app. Open the conversation from the number you want to block, tap the person’s name or number at the top of the screen, then tap Info. Scroll down and tap Block this Caller to confirm. You can also manage all blocked numbers by going to Settings > Messages > Blocked Contacts. For a broader view, Apple also documents a path at Settings > Privacy & Security > Blocked Contacts on iPhone and iPad.
What happens when you block a number on iPhone
When you block a contact in Messages, Apple’s documented behavior is that messages from that number are not delivered. The sender does not know they are blocked. Importantly, blocking in Messages also blocks the contact across Mail, Phone, FaceTime, Calendar, and other Apple apps on any Apple device signed in to the same Apple Account.
How to filter unknown senders on iPhone
If you want to reduce clutter from numbers not in your contacts rather than blocking a specific number, you can turn on Filter Unknown Senders. Go to Settings > Messages and toggle the switch on. This separates messages from unknown senders into a separate list, keeping your main inbox focused on contacts you know.
How to block a number from texting you on Android
Google’s official Phone app support documents number blocking from call history. Open the Phone app, tap More > Call history, tap a call from the number you want to block, then use the block option shown there. For blocking calls and numbers, the Phone app method remains the most reliable documented option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the sender know I blocked them?
Apple states that the sender does not know their messages are blocked. They will not receive any notification or indication that you have blocked them.
Will blocked texts still arrive on my phone?
Apple says messages from a blocked contact or number are not delivered. They are simply discarded and never appear in your inbox.
Does blocking texts also block calls?
Yes. Apple documents that blocking a contact in Messages also blocks that contact across Phone, FaceTime, Mail, Calendar, and other apps on devices signed in to the same Apple Account. This means calls from that number are also blocked.
Will blocking a number prevent it from leaving voicemails?
Can I unblock a number?
Yes. You can unblock a number by going to Settings > Messages > Blocked Contacts (or Settings > Privacy & Security > Blocked Contacts) and swiping left or tapping Edit to remove the number from the blocked list. The process for unblocking a number on Android varies by phone model and service provider, but typically you can find the blocked list in the Phone app’s settings.
How can I block a telephone number on a landline?
Landline blocking methods depend on your carrier and phone model. Many carriers offer a call-blocking feature through their customer service or online account portal. Some landline phones also have a built-in block list in the settings menu. To unblock phone number on landline, you would typically access the same settings or contact your carrier to remove the number from the block list.
Is there a limit to how many numbers I can block?
The retrieved Apple pages do not give a separate limit on how many numbers can be blocked. The retrieved Google page also does not state a limit on blocked numbers in the Phone app.
